应对遗传瓶颈 北京首次开展境外种群基因分析助力科学保护麋鹿

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the successful reintroduction and genetic analysis of the Milu deer in China, marking significant progress in species conservation efforts. Group 1: Historical Context - The Milu deer, a species native to China, faced extinction in its homeland by 1900 due to climate change and human activities, with only a few remaining abroad [7] - In 1985, a reintroduction project commenced, bringing 22 Milu deer from the UK back to Beijing, followed by additional imports in subsequent years, totaling 77 deer [7] Group 2: Current Developments - This year, the Beijing Milu Ecological Experimental Center collaborated with the UK to conduct DNA analysis on overseas Milu deer populations, aiming to enhance scientific management and protection strategies [1][3] - The global Milu deer population is currently descended from just 18 individuals, leading to concerns about genetic diversity and inbreeding [3] Group 3: Scientific Breakthroughs - Recent research has achieved significant advancements in understanding the Milu deer genome, genetic diversity, and gut microbiome, which are crucial for their health management [3] - The isolation of 26 types of beneficial bacteria from Milu deer is expected to improve gut health regulation in the species [5] Group 4: Population Growth - Over the past 40 years, the Milu deer population has grown from 77 individuals at the time of reintroduction to approximately 14,000 today, with their distribution expanding from 2 to 94 conservation sites [9]